The United States was founded on the principle of individual rights. Soon, the Senate Judiciary Committee is scheduled to begin the confirmation hearings of Judge Sam Alito. Unlike the nomination of Judge Roberts to the Supreme Court, we have evidence from Alito’s past record that he is not fit to sit on this nation’s highest court.

Sens. Snowe and Collins will have a huge stake in whether or not Alito is confirmed. Both senators have proven that they will side with the opinions of Maine people when it comes to fundamental rights, such as women’s right to privacy, worker protections and disability rights. Alito’s record demonstrates that he is willing to infringe on those fundamental American rights, and therefore, our senators should not vote to confirm him.

Maine people voted for Sens. Snowe and Collins to stand up for us, not to side with the extreme right just to vote with party lines. Mainers have seen that the Bush administration has been far from honest with the American people, and it is the Senate’s duty to provide a check and balance on the power of the president.

Sens. Snowe and Collins can side with Maine people by voting against the confirmation of Alito.

It is time that the Republican majority confirm a consensus nominee that supports the rights of Mainers and all Americans.

John Henderson, Auburn

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